Informed consent forms are long and complex, making it hard for potential research participants to understand the study.

Did you know that investigators from Tufts CTSI-affiliated institutions can now access the NEW Key Information Checklist?

 

The Informed Consent Key Information Checklist is a new validated and reliable tool that investigators can use to assess how easy informed consent key information is to read, understand, and act on.

 

Specifically, the Key Information Checklist helps research teams:

  • Identify and prioritize essential study information

  • Use plain language principles to improve reading ease

  • Promote participant understanding and informed decision-making

  • Align informed consent forms with Common Rule and IRB expectations

 

We encourage all investigators and study coordinators to use this checklist when preparing new consent forms or revising existing ones.

 

The Key Information Checklist brings focus to a vital question: Does your research informed consent key information truly serve study participants? Readability alone is not enough. Information must be understandable and support an informed choice. By applying the three concepts—readability, understandability, and actionability —you can create a document that not only informs but empowers. Try the mantra: make it readable, make it understandable, make it actionable.

 

Need assistance or want to learn more? Visit our web page and submit a service request!